Emergent topological spin structures in a centrosymmetric cubic perovskite

TL;DR

This paper reports the discovery of multiple-q topological spin structures in a centrosymmetric cubic perovskite, expanding the understanding of skyrmion-like states in centrosymmetric materials and their potential for electronic applications.

Contribution

It identifies and characterizes two types of robust multiple-q topological spin structures in SrFeO3, a centrosymmetric perovskite, without external magnetic fields, linking centrosymmetric lattices to topological magnetic order.

Findings

Identified anisotropic double-q spin spiral in SrFeO3.

Discovered isotropic quadruple-q spiral with hedgehog singularities.

Provided experimental evidence linking centrosymmetric lattices to topological spin structures.

Abstract

The skyrmion crystal (SkX) characterized by a multiple-q helical spin modulation has been reported as a unique topological state that competes with the single-q helimagnetic order in non-centrosymmetric materials. Here we report the discovery of a rich variety of multiple-q helimagnetic spin structures in the centrosymmetric cubic perovskite SrFeO3. On the basis of neutron diffraction measurements, we have identified two types of robust multiple-q topological spin structures that appear in the absence of external magnetic fields: an anisotropic double-q spin spiral and an isotropic quadruple-q spiral hosting a three-dimensional lattice of hedgehog singularities. The present system not only diversifies the family of SkX host materials, but furthermore provides an experimental missing link between centrosymmetric lattices and topological helimagnetic order. It also offers perspectives for integration of SkXs into oxide electronic devices.